Slack Huddles provide a lightweight, audio-first way to facilitate spontaneous conversations and collaboration directly within Slack channels or direct messages (DMs). Designed to replace quick in-person chats, Huddles support both internal teams and external partners, with features like screen sharing, live captions, and threaded notes. The tool is available across all Slack plans, though free accounts are limited to 2 participants, while paid plans support up to 50 ^[1]. Huddles integrate seamlessly into workflows, reducing the need for formal meetings or context-switching to external platforms ^[6].

Key features include:

• Instant audio/video calls with one-click access via the headphones icon in channels or DMs ^[1][4].
• Screen sharing for up to two participants simultaneously, ideal for pair programming or collaborative reviews ^[1][9].
• Persistent note-taking in a dedicated thread, ensuring action items and discussions remain accessible ^[1][4].
• Customizable preferences, including noise suppression, default cameras, and live captions for accessibility ^[8].

Huddles are particularly useful for brainstorming, problem-solving, and maintaining team cohesion in remote or hybrid environments ^[2][5]. They also reduce video fatigue by offering an audio-first alternative to traditional video calls ^[6].

Using Slack Huddles and Voice Communication Features

Starting and Managing Huddles

To initiate a Huddle, navigate to any Slack channel or DM and click the headphones icon in the conversation header. On mobile, tap the headphones icon in the top-right corner ^[1][5]. Once started, you can toggle video on or off, invite additional participants (even those outside the original conversation), and share your screen ^[1][4]. Huddles remain active until the last participant leaves, and the dedicated note thread persists in the channel or DM for future reference ^[1].

Key actions and customizations include:

• Inviting participants: Click the "Invite" button during a Huddle to add others via Slack mention or by sharing a direct link ^[1].
• Screen sharing: Click the screen share icon to broadcast your desktop or a specific application window. Up to two participants can share screens simultaneously ^[1][9].
• Video and audio settings: Adjust your default camera, microphone, and speaker in the Preferences menu under "Audio, Video & Images" ^[8]. Enable features like noise suppression or live captions for clarity.
• Leaving or ending: Participants can exit at any time without disrupting others. The Huddle automatically ends when the last person leaves ^[1].

For mobile users, additional options like "Raise to listen" (automatically muting when the phone is lowered) and background music (when alone in a Huddle) enhance the experience ^[8]. Huddles also support emoji reactions and fun visual effects to keep interactions engaging ^[1].

Practical Use Cases and Best Practices

Slack Huddles are designed for informal, real-time collaboration, making them ideal for scenarios where quick alignment or spontaneous discussion is needed. Teams use Huddles for brainstorming sessions, pair programming, or addressing urgent feedback without scheduling a formal meeting ^[2][5]. For example, developers can share their screens to debug code together, while project managers might use Huddles for last-minute reviews before a launch ^[2].

Best practices to maximize effectiveness include:

• Keep discussions focused: Huddles are best for short, actionable conversations. Avoid lengthy discussions that could be better suited for async communication or scheduled meetings ^[3].
• Leverage threaded notes: Use the dedicated note thread to document decisions, action items, or follow-up tasks. This ensures accountability and provides a reference for absent team members ^[1][4].
• Encourage inclusivity: Huddles can serve as virtual "office hours" for managers or mentors, allowing team members to drop in with questions ^[2]. Clearly communicate when Huddles are open for broader participation.
• Use video strategically: While Huddles are audio-first, enabling video can help with complex discussions or when visual cues are beneficial. However, audio-only reduces fatigue and distractions ^[6].
• Integrate with workflows: Tools like Supernormal or Zapier can automate note-taking and sharing, streamlining post-Huddle follow-ups ^[3]. For example, Supernormal’s AI notetaker can transcribe discussions and sync notes to Slack channels.

Huddles also support social interactions, such as virtual coffee chats or team check-ins, which foster camaraderie in remote settings ^[2]. For hybrid teams, Huddles bridge the gap between in-office and remote employees by providing a low-friction way to collaborate ^[9].